Residential crowding and women's health: A major risk factor for respiratory disease in Bulandshahr city

The rapid urbanization in the developing countries coupled with over population has led to decline in city development. The problem of overcrowding in urban areas has become much more severe in the last twenty years especially in the developing countries. India, being the second most populous country of the world is facing the problem of environmental degradation, overcrowding and health related issues in urban centers. Therefore, high residential density in urban areas can seriously affect people ’life in many ways. In the present study an attempt has been made to analyze the effect of residential overcrowding and its potential impact on women's health. The research methodology is conducted with questionnaire surveys, interviews, and detailed observations of daily life cycles, dwelling elements, and the pattern of domestic space arrangements. The study revealed that overcrowding has significant negative effects on physical health of the poor residents. The type of room and being female also impact significantly on the health of the city residents.